Seeing totals didn’t change behavior. What did help was writing down each expense and getting some form of feedback — basically someone (or something) saying “this was fine” or “this was probably unnecessary.” That pause was enough to change my next decision.
So I built a small iOS app where:
You log expenses quickly
Spending is rated and short notes are added
Over time, patterns become obvious (impulsive buys, emotional spending, etc.)
It’s not meant to shame — more like a calm mirror with metrics. This approach helped me personally, so I’m curious whether it resonates with others.
App link: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/nexspend/id6755906178
Happy to hear criticism, skepticism, or suggestions.